Origins and Role of Clerk of Works
– The title ‘clerk of works’ originated in the 13th century with monks and priests overseeing construction.
– Craftsmen and masons later took on the role.
– By the 19th century, experienced tradesmen became clerks of works.
– The role expanded to cover most building works.
– The clerk of works ensures quality, compliance, and value for money for the client.
– The role requires rigorous inspection and impartiality.
– The clerk of works advises but does not give instructions.
Notable Clerks of Works
– Geoffrey Chaucer, John Louth, Nicholas Merbury, William of Wykeham, William Dickinson, and James Needham were notable clerks of works.
– They served in various positions overseeing construction projects.
The Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate of Great Britain Incorporated (ICWCI)
– ICWCI is a professional body supporting quality construction through inspection.
– It provides support, advice, publications, and events for members.
– Members have post-nominals such as FICWCI, MICWCI, and LICWCI.
– The Institute was founded in 1882 and has undergone name changes.
– Its mission is to look after the interests of clerks of works and promote quality in the construction industry.
Building on Quality Awards
– ICWCI holds biannual Building on Quality Awards.
– Nominations are accepted from anyone involved in quality site inspection.
– The awards recognize the abilities and contributions of clerks of works.
– Judging is based on performance and impact on projects.
– The awards highlight the importance of quality site inspection.
Other Related Concepts and Information
– Notable clerks of works in Canada include John Mactaggart and John Morris.
– Renovations to Pembroke City Hall were overseen by clerks of works.
– Additional concepts related to the clerk of works role include quality control, management systems, and assurance.
– References, external links, and resources related to the role are provided. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clerk_of_works
This article needs additional citations for verification. (December 2009) |
A clerk of works or clerk of the works (CoW) is employed by an architect or a client on a construction site. The role is primarily to represent the interests of the client in regard to ensuring that the quality of both materials and workmanship are in accordance with the design information such as specification and engineering drawings, in addition to recognized quality standards. The role is defined in standard forms of contract such as those published by the Joint Contracts Tribunal. Clerks of works are also the most highly qualified non-commissioned tradesmen in the Royal Engineers. The qualification can be held in three specialisms: electrical, mechanical and construction.
Historically, the clerk of works was employed by the architect on behalf of a client, or by local authorities to oversee public works. The clerks of works can also be employed by the client (state body/local authority/private client) to monitor design and build projects where the traditional role of the architect is within the design and build project team.
Maître d'oeuvre (master of work) is a term used in many Francophone jurisdictions for the office that carries out this job in major projects; the Channel Tunnel project had such an office. In Italy, the term used is direttore dei lavori (manager of the works).
